A NATIONAL workshop focusing on the future of wild deer in Australia has identified significant knowledge gaps that must be addressed to effectively manage the pest animal.

In particular, the workshop identified the need for cost-effective and socially acceptable wild deer management practices.

Dr David Forsyth, research officer with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and lead organiser of the National Deer Workshop, said that six introduced deer species were found wild in Australia, with all states and territories having at least one species.

“We are hearing reports of wild deer causing environmental, agricultural and social impacts, but the extent and importance of these impacts are not well understood,” Dr Forsyth said.

“The workshop outlined key national wild deer research and innovation priorities within the four themes of impacts, management tools and systems, monitoring deer distribution and abundance, and community engagement.

“Managing the impacts of wild deer is a national problem and it is hoped that these proceedings will assist agencies with prioritising funding and resources to better understand and minimise the impacts of wild deer in Australia.”